Announcements - September 7, 2020
Intereach asks: R U OK?
Intereach staff from across the organisation’s 17 locations will come together on Thursday to virtually participate in RUOK? Day.
RUOK? Day is a national day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask ‘are you ok?’ if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs.
As part of the Intereach recognition of RUOK? Day, a Community Linker in each office will facilitate discussions with staff about ‘being okay’.
There will be a video address by all members of the Intereach executive team at which it will be acknowledged that 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone and circumstances have made it even more important to stay connected.
CEO Keryn Fox said Intereach was ensuring staff have access to resources to help them know what to say when someone says they are not okay, and guide them through how they can continue a conversation that could change a life.
“You don’t have to be an expert to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not okay. By knowing what to say you can help someone feel supported and access appropriate help before they’re in crisis, which can make a really positive difference to their life,” Ms Fox said.
As part of Thursday’s activities Intereach will launch its Mental Health Framework and the implementation of a partnership project with Bendigo Community Health called ‘5 Ways To Wellbeing’.
The five ways, or ‘steps’, revolve around five key platforms: Connect; Keep Learning; Be Active; Be Aware; Help Others (give).
Ms Fox said this campaign had been developed on evidence-based best practice, and staff would be provided with material to help them follow this campaign.
“The evidence shows happier people can add 7.5 years to their life, people with higher wellbeing are more likely to be in work or full-time education, and that each of the ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’ has been shown to improve personal sense of wellbeing across the lifespan and regardless of their starting point in mental health.
“The day presents an opportunity for the executive and management to undertake an additional check with Intereach staff during COVID-19, giving staff the chance to connect and pose the question: RUOK?” Ms Fox said.
All staff will receive a gift which links to the ‘5 Ways To Wellbeing’ campaign.
At Intereach’s Deniliquin office, the Out of School Hours (OOSH) program will celebrate RUOK? Day with younger participants.
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